I consider lying for just half a second and decide against doing that.
“Yes, it’s Carla. It’s, um… It’s a personal matter,” I push out. My cheeks are hot. “I was hoping to see Flint. I know him…”
Had great sex with him.
“I recently saw him again. I’m not sure if you know Robyn. Dr. Keller and Ridge. I mean, you must know Ridge, since he works here.”
“He reports to me. I’m Magma.”
Crap!
This is Magma. The Magma.
I’ve heard all about him.
This is the boss. The bigwig who runs Security Central. I have to get out of here.
“I wanted to have a quick word with him. About something private. Nothing to do with work. It…I… Never mind. I can come back.”
“Flint isn’t here,” he says. “And this isn’t a good time.”
“Right. No. Of course. I’ll, um, I’ll call him. Or I’ll come back some other time.”
“Would you like me to pass on a message?”
I shake my head fast. “No. Thank you. It’s nothing important and can totally wait. I should get back to the hospital.”
Magma studies me for another second. He doesn’t look annoyed, exactly. I don’t think he does, but he’s really hard to read.
“Things are a mess here right now,” he says. “Flint is going to be tied up with work-related matters. I might suggest you try to get a hold of him outside of working hours.”
“Of course. I understand.” I stand up so fast, I almost make myself lightheaded. “I shouldn’t have come. I’m sorry to have wasted your time.”
He gives me a small nod. “Jess will see you out.”
I’m out of the office before he finishes the sentence.
Jess is hovering nearby, and she takes one look at my face and, mercifully, just turns and walks me toward the elevator without a single question.
The elevator doors close, and I am finally alone.
Thank god it’s over.
I didn’t even get to speak to Flint, but he will hear of my being here, I’m sure.
I should message him…and say what exactly?
The elevator deposits me back in the lobby, and I walk out as briskly as I can manage. The receptionist gives me another polite smile.
I make it to my car. I get in and close the door.
I could wait in the parking lot for him to get here and then…pounce out like a stalker.
I almost laugh out loud.
No way.
I’ll leave the ball in his court.
